International Relations: Neo-Realism
8 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of the international system according to neo-realism?

  • A system dominated by a single powerful state
  • A system governed by international law
  • An anarchic system with no overarching authority (correct)
  • A centralized world government

    • What is the primary focus of neo-realism?

  • The influence of ideology on state behavior
  • The importance of international organizations
  • The role of individual leaders in international relations
  • The distribution of power and the constraints of the international system (correct)

    • According to neo-realism, what motivates states to balance against a powerful state?

  • A need to maximize their security (correct)
  • A goal to dominate the international system
  • A desire to promote peace and stability
  • A obligation to protect human rights

    • What is the role of states in neo-realism?

    <p>They are the primary actors in international relations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What assumption do neo-realists make about state behavior?

    <p>States are rational actors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is often considered the founding father of neo-realism?

    <p>Kenneth Waltz</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the title of Kenneth Waltz's seminal work on neo-realism?

    <p>The Theory of International Politics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the central argument of neo-realism?

    <p>The distribution of power in the international system is key to understanding state behavior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Neo-Realism in International Relations

    • Neo-realism, also known as structural realism, is a prominent theory in International Relations that emerged as a response to classical realism.
    • It focuses on the structural factors in the international system that influence state behavior.

    Key Points of Neo-Realism

    • The international system is anarchic, meaning there is no overarching world government or authority to enforce rules.
    • States are sovereign and act in their own self-interest.
    • The balance of power among states is crucial, and states seek to maximize their security and will balance against any power that threatens their security.
    • Neo-realism places a strong emphasis on the role of states as the primary actors in international relations, with other factors like ideology or individual leaders considered secondary.
    • States are assumed to be rational actors, making decisions based on a careful calculation of costs and benefits.

    Key Thinkers and Proponents of Neo-Realism

    • Kenneth Waltz is considered the founding father of neo-realism, and his book "Theory of International Politics" (1979) is a seminal work in this field.
    • Waltz focused on the structure of the international system as the primary determinant of state behavior.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Description

    Explore the key concepts of neo-realism, a prominent theory in International Relations, including anarchy, self-help, and the influence of structural factors on state behavior.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser